Total pages in book: 95
Estimated words: 91049 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 455(@200wpm)___ 364(@250wpm)___ 303(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 91049 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 455(@200wpm)___ 364(@250wpm)___ 303(@300wpm)
“Yes.”
“I was curious. I allowed it. He seemed to know where he was going.”
Her words imply I shouldn’t pry further. I tighten my jaw and hold in all my inquiries. There’s no need to frustrate us both over something we cannot change.
The snow continues to fall overhead. As we approach the opening of the rose garden, I grow worried about her beloved roses. This snow will surely put out their fire.
However, once we’re closer, I can feel the heat of the roses. It’s warmer than the last time she brought me here. When we step into the garden, I understand why.
As the snowflakes fall on the petals, the flames consume them. It’s as if the snowflakes are fuel to the roses. The cold from when we were in front of the castle is no longer a concern.
“You’re warm,” I say as I note the beads of sweat on her upper lip. “Shouldn’t you remove your cloak? I will hold it for you.”
She chews on her lip for a few seconds. I reach for the button that closes the cloak at her throat. Releasing it, I push the fabric from her shoulders. I go to place it across my forearm, but it vanishes.
I grin at her as I cause my own coat that I summoned when we stepped out of the castle to vanish. Her lips twitch and her eyes sparkle. I note the end of her tail swaying behind her as the length is wrapped around her. Its heart-shaped tip rocks from side to side like a pendulum behind her.
“Do you know why your father wanted one of these roses?”
I tilt my head and think over her question. Stories of fire roses tickle my memory, but I can’t for the life of me remember them in this moment.
“No.”
“They are roses of eternal life. At least, that’s one of their powers. When you give one to someone you truly care for, they will live forever. No weapon will be strong enough to take them from you,” she says.
I watch as she reaches for one of the roses and hands it to me. I smile down at her as I hold the rose. Its flames dance as the snow falls onto it.
I run my finger over the flames and watch as they caress my skin without burning me. My smile broadens. Lifting my gaze to Blaise’s amber eyes, I have an idea.
I reach to brush my fingertips along her temple, tracing the hairline of her thick hair. I push her hair behind her ear as I search her expressive eyes. With my other hand, I gently place the rose in the side of her full locks.
It settles into place and the flames calm. It’s as if it belongs right where I placed it. Blaise places a hand over her chest, and I know she has felt the tug on our link.
I slip my hand into hers. “Come. Let’s see what we can get into for the rest of the day.”
Chapter 14
Time for Fun
Argon
“Thank you,” I say to Ms. Posh as she brings me a glass of wine while I sit in the library awaiting Blaise’s arrival.
“You’re welcome, my dear, can I get you anything else?”
“No, thank you. I’ll wait for Blaise.”
Dinesh and Bach have set the game table and brought in refreshments. I look around and the setting feels so normal, like an evening set up for some fun with my comrades back home. Blaise looked so excited when I suggested a game night.
My mind goes back to the pull of our link in the garden. I still don’t know how it’s possible, but I’m almost positive that’s what’s going on. As I have the thought, my link starts to pulse.
The door opens and in steps Blaise. She looks lovely. Her face is made up with glossy lips and her hair is styled in those big waves again. She’s wearing a dress. I allow my gaze to travel lazily over her.
The dress is a tight-knit fabric that shows off all her curves. If not for the hooves and her tail, I’d take her for an ordinary woman. I shake my head clear. Ordinary, she is not.
I haven’t found an ordinary thing about her yet. Even as she moves closer now, her hair bounces with each step and her magic pulses around her. It’s like I can see the aura of her magic swirling.
The depth of her power brings me a bit of pride. This is what my soul match should feel like.
“Why are you smiling?” she asks as she takes the seat I’ve pulled out for her across from where I’ve been waiting.
I move to reclaim my own seat and stare at her for a moment as I gather my thoughts. I’m caught in her gaze. Blaise is truly gorgeous. Take away the tail and hooves and she’s stunning, scars included.